Board Policy 125: Replacement of Lost or Damaged Library Materials

Purpose

The Library charges customers for lost and damaged materials to defray the cost of purchasing and processing replacement materials.

Lost Materials

Replacement price

The Monterey Public Library charges the customer the purchase price for unreturned items. If the customer returns the item, only the late fine is charged. If an item is not returned, payment of the replacement charge is required.

Exceptions

The Library charges the customer a fixed replacement charge for unreturned magazines, paperbacks, and pamphlets. If the customer returns the item, only the fine is charged. If an item is not returned, payment of the charge is required.

Type of material

Charge

Adult magazines

$10.00

Youth magazines

$5.00

Teen magazines

$5.00

Youth paperbacks

$6.00

Late Fines Assessed for Lost Items

A customer paying for a lost item is charged the replacement cost, but not the late fine.

Refunds

When a lost item that has been paid for is returned within 30 days from the date of payment, the replacement price will be refunded. The returned item must be in acceptable condition as determined by staff. No refunds are given for materials returned to the Library more than 30 days past the date of payment or for the return of magazines, paperbacks, or pamphlets that have been paid for.

Damaged Materials

Replacement Charge

If a borrower returns an item that has been damaged, the customer is charged as if the item were lost, as stated above.

If, however, the selector for the item determines that the item can still be circulated, a charge equal to the maximum fine for that item is charged.

Late Fines Assessed for Damaged Items

A customer paying for a damaged item, which can no longer be circulated, is charged the replacement cost, but not the late fine.

Discretion Of Library Director In Handling Lost And Damaged Materials

The Library Director maintains the authority to modify the application of the terms of this policy as appropriate, based on the specific circumstances of an incident, and recommendations by staff.